They say a week is a long time in Football and as far as Kalifa Cisse is concerned, it has been a rollercoaster ride of not being wanted, wanted for a little while and now wanted longer term — ahhh… for the life of a professional footballer!
Reports that the Rams have decided to open talks with Cisse about a permanent deal have surfaced and after his all action display on Saturday, are any of us surprised.
They say that if an opportunity arises — you should grab the bull by the horns or in this case — the Rams. There is no doubt that the former Reading, Bolton & Bristol player has done just that, by pulling out all stops during the victory over Wednesday on the weekend.
Originally signing on non-contract terms so he could play on the weekend for Derby, the 29 year old sufficiently impressed the coaching team enough for them to want to make him a permanent part of the squad.
Steve McClaren has had a few changes of hearts on this one after originally indicating there was no deal on the table — now it seems even he has been surprised by Cisse’s continual improvement:
"We are looking to get a contract for him and extend it as far as we can. He has been working with us for three or four weeks, working hard and getting better each week.”
"He has played 90 minutes in the second team already and did a good job not having to run far but babysitting Craig Bryson and Will Hughes."
There is no doubt that the aging legs of John Eustace must be on McClaren’s mind as having both Cisse and Eustace in the squad would give him the ability to rest him when required, cover injury or suspension and provide competition for the position.
That sounds like a win, win for all parties — so here’s to seeing more of Cisse soon!
Sing it now:
Rams fans went to see, see, see
To see what they could see, see, see
All that they could see, see, see
Was Super Kalifa — Cisse!
Jamie Ward has had to opt out of International duty for Northern Ireland who are heading to Turkey this Friday.
Unfortunately for Ward, who is not the luckiest player when it comes to injuries, he came away from the weekend’s victory carrying a bruised foot. The DCFC medical teamed have assessed the injury and recommended he withdraw from the squad and remain in Derby for treatment. It is a blow for Ward after cementing his place at International level, having earned 9 caps, scoring his first goal in September against Portugal.
The injury will continue to be assessed ahead of the Rams next match but as that will not be until November 23rd; time is on his side to take his place in the team next time out.
We wish you a speedy recovery Jamie!